Steingruber quickly rose to prominence. In 2015, she became the first Swiss female gymnast to win a European title in the individual all-around at the European Championships in Montpellier, France. This victory was a significant milestone in her career.

Olympic Success

At the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Steingruber made history again. She became the first Swiss female athlete to win a medal in artistic gymnastics at the Olympics by claiming bronze in vault. She also had the honour of being Switzerland's flag bearer at the opening ceremony.

Challenges and Injuries

Despite her successes, Steingruber faced numerous challenges. In July 2018, she ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee, ruling her out of major competitions that year. She also missed the 2017 European Championships due to injury and underwent foot surgery in October 2016.

Retirement

After competing at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Steingruber decided to retire from competitive gymnastics. She cited physical and mental exhaustion as reasons for her decision. Reflecting on her career, she expressed satisfaction with her achievements and felt it was time to move on.

Honours and Recognition

Throughout her career, Steingruber received numerous accolades. In 2013, she was named Swiss Female Athlete of the Year. She was also awarded the Prize for Elegance at the 2015 World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. In May 2018, she was named an honorary citizen of Gossau.

Personal Life and Interests

Steingruber is multilingual, speaking English, French, and German. Her hobbies include skiing and ice hockey. She idolises Swiss tennis player Roger Federer and has a superstition of wearing earrings gifted by her grandparents during big occasions.

Mental Training

Steingruber emphasised the importance of mental preparation in gymnastics. During her recovery from injuries, she committed to mental training to maintain her competitive edge. This approach helped her visualise success and stay focused during competitions.

Legacy

Steingruber's contributions to gymnastics extend beyond her medals. She introduced a new element on the balance beam during the 2011 World Championships in Tokyo, Japan. The 'Steingruber' is now part of the Code of Points, cementing her legacy in the sport.

Giulia Steingruber's journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. Her achievements have inspired many young gymnasts and will continue to do so for years to come.